New Year’s resolutions: The ancient history of a yearly tradition
The Ancient Origins of New Year’s Resolutions
As the year draws to a close, many people find themselves contemplating the idea of making New Year’s resolutions. This age-old practice, however, dates back thousands of years to the ancient Babylonians and their festival of Akitu. This festival, celebrated in April, marked the beginning of the Babylonian new year and was a time for reflection and self-improvement.
The Babylonians based their new year on the agricultural calendar, often starting in March to coincide with the farming season. The festival of Akitu celebrated creation and fertility on both a cosmic and agricultural scale, with myths of gods and goddesses shaping the world. It was during this festival that the Babylonians engaged in the earliest form of New Year’s resolutions, making promises to the gods to pay off debts or return borrowed items.
Across different civilizations, the tradition of celebrating the new year has persisted. The Romans, for example, exchanged gifts and made oaths of loyalty to the emperor. In Ireland, having a clean house symbolized a fresh start for the coming year, while in Latin America, the burning of the Año Viejo doll represented letting go of the past.
The Evolution of New Year’s Resolutions
Over time, New Year’s resolutions have taken on different forms. In Colonial America, Puritans sought to avoid debauchery and reflect on the passing year. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, introduced Covenant Renewal Services as a more solemn alternative to raucous celebrations.
The 17th-century theologian Jonathan Edwards created a list of resolutions for himself, focusing on kindness and avoiding gossip. The tradition of making resolutions continued to evolve, with references appearing in newspapers and magazines by the 19th century.
By the 20th century, New Year’s resolutions had become a firm tradition, reflecting both religious and secular aspirations. While the specific goals may have changed over time, the underlying desire to start afresh and improve oneself remains a universal human impulse.
